Matthew 7:15-20
Jesus said to his disciples:
“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing,
but underneath are ravenous wolves.
By their fruits you will know them.
Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?
Just so, every good tree bears good fruit,
and a rotten tree bears bad fruit.
A good tree cannot bear bad fruit,
nor can a rotten tree bear good fruit.
Every tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down
and thrown into the fire.
So by their fruits you will know them.”
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This passage has a lot of depth to it. The first generations of the church had to deal with numerous heresies that sprang forth after the passing of the apostles, and even while the apostles were still alive. Christ gives instruction on how to remain in His Truth.
So ... what are the fruits to look for? St. Augustine pointed to Galatians 5, where Paul describes the fruit of the Holy Spirit - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control. I'll stick with him.
